Shakeel Pillay from the Denarau Golf Club captured the overall gross title in the amateur division at the 54th RC Manubhai Ba Open, finishing with an impressive score of 142. This victory marks a significant milestone for Shakeel, as it is his first Ba Open win, especially gratifying after he narrowly missed the title last year.
“It feels good to win this year. I feel it was redemption after last year’s performance,” said the 19-year-old, expressing his excitement over the achievement. Looking ahead, Shakeel shared his ambition to participate in international tournaments, with plans to compete in Australia starting in January.
Throughout the championship, Jalen Raman was a close contender, finishing as the runner-up in the overall gross category with a score of 144. The overall nett title was claimed by Christopher Daniel, who scored 130, just edging out Ganesh Chand, who finished with a score of 131.
In the A grade 36-hole gross category, Asish Chand took victory with a score of 145, followed by Isei Waqa at 150 and Indra Warjan at 152. Jainendra Prasad emerged as the top player in the nett division of the same grade with a score of 139, completing a competitive field ahead of Ashwin Sharma and Rohit Chandra, both of whom finished with 142.
The B grade saw Sikipio winning the 36-hole gross title with a score of 158, with Sailesh Kumar and Abdul Khan trailing behind at 159 and 162, respectively. In the nett category, Samisoni Mara and Naleen Sharma each completed their rounds with a score of 133, while Damon Chen secured his position just one stroke behind with a 134.
Sunil Sharma claimed victory in the C grade 36-hole gross category with a score of 178, followed closely by Sanjay Singh and Mohit Prasad. In the nett division, Kamal Sharma finished first with a score of 137, edging out Sanjay Sharma and Yash Kumar.
The women’s division showcased outstanding talent as Raina Kumar took the overall gross title with a impressive score of 150. The overall nett title went to Seni Loga, who finished with 130, while Seini Lewai and Lusiana Leqa followed closely behind.
Adding to the excitement, Zoheer Ahmad won the professional division, with Roneel Prakash as the runner-up. This event highlighted the flourishing golfing community in Fiji, showcasing the depth of talent and dedication among its players.
As the Ba Open continues to grow, it fosters a spirit of competition and encourages young players like Shakeel to pursue their dreams on international platforms. This sense of camaraderie and enthusiasm among golfers bodes well for the future of the sport in Fiji.
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